Resources

Using Proper Sign Materials

Standard Calendered Vinyl

As an effective solution for most temporary outdoor or permanent-solution indoor signage, standard calendered vinyl is available in an assortment of colors and is typically rated for an outdoor life of three to five years.

Premium Cast Vinyl

More durable than other types of vinyl, premium cast vinyl conforms to irregular surfaces and will tolerate extreme conditions better than calendered vinyl. Cast vinyl is available in a wide assortment of colors. They are typically rated for five to seven years of outdoor life and are the preferred choice for permanent outdoor signage and all vehicle graphics.

Digitally-printed fabrics are relatively new to the sign industry and are making a splash when combined with the use of digital technology. Fabrics for banners, awnings, flags and fine art, including canvases, are available. The uses for printed fabrics are virtually endless.

Wind Mesh

Wind mesh is fabricated with tiny holes in the fabric much like window perf. These holes allow air to move through the material, virtually eliminating the wind damage that is often associated with traditional banners. The primary uses for wind mesh are street banners, building wraps and large exterior applications. Since the material is see through, wind mesh banners work well in storefront applications and as room dividers or screens.

Rigid Stock - Interior

Corrugated Plastic

A capable, yet economical sign material, the primary use for corrugated plastic is temporary signage. It can be used for indoor signage; however, other plastics such as PVC or acrylic are more durable and project a better image.

Polystyrene

Polystyrene is an economical option when you need more durability than corrugated plastic but presentation value is not a concern. This material is a solid, white plastic that will not dent or crease easily. It will last almost indefinitely indoors and will yellow only after a couple of months outdoors. The thicker stock is rigid enough to stand on an easel, making it a popular material for seminar show cards. Thinner stock is appropriate for signs that need to travel frequently, as it is flexible enough to be rolled and placed within a shipping tube or tradeshow display canister.

Foam PVC

Foam PVC is ideal for use in permanent indoor applications that require an upscale presentation. It is not recommended for outdoor signage.

Foam Board

Used primarily for short-term applications, foam board is lightweight and rigid, making it an excellent choice for show cards. It is somewhat brittle and damages easily if not handled carefully. Foam board offers an extremely smooth surface that laminates well, making it a widely acceptable choice for mounting digitally-printed digital, color graphics.

Rigid Stock - Exterior

Acrylic

Acrylic is a durable material suited for almost any sign application. Indoors, it provides the upscale look demanded by image-conscious clients. Outdoors, it offers the durability and tolerance needed for permanent applications.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonates, such as Lexan®, are clear, shatterproof plastics that provide more durability and more flexibility than conventional acrylic plastics. They are widely used for exterior sign faces in areas that are subject to vandalism. Polycarbonates are also used for light box graphics.

MDO Wood

Our marine grade plywood (MDO) will withstand the elements. It will last several years outdoors and is strong enough to serve as a freestanding sign. It is ideal for applications such as construction site signs, commercial leasing and sandwich board signs.

Aluminum

Aluminum is the perfect material for any permanent outdoor sign. Aluminum will not rust, and its tough enamel will not flake or peel like other painted materials.

Aluminum Composite Materials (ACM)

ACM combines the durability and professional presentation of aluminum with the strength and rigidity of wood. ACMs are stronger than solid aluminum sheets of similar thickness but not as expensive. They are ideal for free-standing signs that require a more professional presentation than offered with wood.

Own a franchise

A Signs Now center offers customized digital imaging, graphics solutions, and other visual communication tools to businesses worldwide.
Many centers also enjoy a brisk consumer trade. Signs Now franchise members serve as consultants offering businesses expertise on the best
use of graphics and signage .... Read More.

2019
Sign & Graphics Operations LLC. All rights reserved. The trademarks and copyrighted designs contained herein are the property of the respective owners. Signs Now® is independently owned and operated. Signs Now® Centers may or may not perform or offer to perform electrical and/or installation work. If your local center does offer these products and/or services, it is their responsibility to comply with all state and local licensing and regulation code requirements. Your local Signs Now can inform you if they perform this work, and if not can refer you to another qualified entity.
Sitemap